The Gulf of Mexico is one of the most productive offshore fisheries in the United States. Deep water, oil and gas platforms, and the loop current create habitat for yellowfin tuna, wahoo, mahi, and blue marlin. Trolling is a great way to cover the large areas between structure.
Fishing the rigs
Platforms act as artificial reefs in deep water, holding bait and attracting tuna and other pelagics. Troll around rigs in wide circles, staying a safe distance from the structure and following any posted rules. Many crews troll around several rigs in a day.
Loop current and edges
The loop current and its eddies bring warm, blue water into the Gulf. Edges between blue and green water are excellent for marlin, wahoo, and tuna. Use SST and chlorophyll charts to find them. See trolling temperature breaks.
Lures by species
- Yellowfin: medium resin lures and bullets at 6.5 to 8.5 knots.
- Wahoo: high-speed bullets on wire at 12 to 16 knots, especially in cooler months.
- Mahi: bright, smaller lures along weed lines in summer.
- Blue marlin: large resin heads at 7.5 to 9 knots in summer.
Seasons
Summer is generally peak for blue marlin and mahi in the northern Gulf. Yellowfin are caught around rigs much of the year. Wahoo often pick up in cooler months. Conditions vary, so check local reports.
Weed lines
Sargassum lines are common in the Gulf and often hold mahi and wahoo. See how to fish weed lines offshore.
Popular ports
Venice, Louisiana is famous for yellowfin around the rigs. Orange Beach, Destin, and Port Aransas are also popular jumping-off points for bluewater trips.
Long runs
Some Gulf trips require long runs to deep water. Plan fuel carefully and check the weather. See our offshore fishing safety checklist.
For yellowfin details, see best places to catch yellowfin tuna.
